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Hi, I'm State Representative Richard LeBlanc.  Thanks for listening to my latest radio report.

Today's topic is going to be the "Hire Michigan First" plan which is a package of bills that will boost our economy and capitalize on the skills that our state's residents currently have.    

I voted in support of this legislation because it will immediately create jobs for Michigan residents and ensure that they get the first crack at jobs that are created by companies that benefit from our state economic development programs or tax breaks.  The "Hire Michigan First" plan will also crack down on companies that hire undocumented workers by canceling their state contracts and also canceling their tax incentives.  

We know that downsizing and outsourcing has stolen one job after another from our communities and its residents. Michigan working families have been hit hard - and we must do everything that we can to protect and create jobs now for our residents.

The "Hire Michigan First" plan is going to reward Michigan businesses that invest in our community and hire our workers today.  Amongst the other things, this comprehensive plan will give preference for tax breaks and also other economic development tools to companies that hire the most Michigan residents.

Now, this rule would apply to projects handled by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and you might often hear us say the "MEDC".  That's what it is; the Michigan Development Corporation, and certain state-funded programs, including the Renaissance Zone Act and several others.

The package requires companies that take economic development incentives to report on who they hire to ensure that Michigan residents are put first, encouraging transparency and accountability within government.

The bills also crack down on companies that hire undocumented workers by canceling their state contracts and canceling those tax incentives. The plan would also require them to pay back the incentives that they already received and bar them from future contracts.

The hard-working men and women of Michigan are second to none, and we know that.  This plan will support our communities by creating jobs and putting our residents – the residents that have the skills and experience that companies need to stay competitive – into good-paying jobs right now. 

If you would like to learn more about this package please access the internet and go to www.hiremichfirst.com.  That\'s hire, M-I-C-H first.com.  And for more information on legislation within the House of Representatives in general, you can visit www.housedems.com.

Now I've said it before and I will say it again, As always, have any questions, comments or concerns with regard to this topic or any other topic, I hope that you'll choose to call us please call me toll free at my office.  That number is 888-737-5325.

It's a pleasure to serve you and I thank you for listening.